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2010-2011 University Catalog
Economics, MA
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Banner Code: LA-MA-ECON
Web: economics.gmu.edu
The master’s degree in economics strengthens students’ knowledge of economic theory and improves their skills in applying the theory to economic problems. Graduates are qualified to read and judge other research and conduct their own research, either individually or as members of government or business teams. They are also prepared to write policy analysis articles. Students who plan to pursue a PhD in economics should apply directly to the doctoral program.
Although the department does not guarantee availability of courses every semester, a typical first-year sequence includes ECON 611 and 630, and an elective in the fall, and ECON 612 and 615, and an elective in the spring. If possible, part-time students should arrange their work schedules to take two courses per semester in the first year.
This program of study is offered by the Department of Economics .
For policies governing all graduate degrees, see the Academic Policies chapter of the catalog. |
Application Requirements
Applicants to the MA in economics must meet the admission standards and application requirements for graduate study as specified in the Admission chapter of this catalog. In addition to holding an undergraduate degree, not necessarily in economics, they should have satisfactorily completed intermediate microeconomics and macroeconomics and at least one semester of calculus (MATH 108 or equivalent) before enrolling in any graduate courses. Students entering the master’s program should be familiar with basic statistics as well. Successful applicants have earned a GPA of 3.00 in the last two years of undergraduate work and in all economics courses, as well as satisfactory scores on the GRE (subject exam is optional). Applicants should submit two letters of recommendation and a brief personal statement explaining their interest in the program.
The department accepts MA students for the fall semester only. Three required courses (9 credits)
Master’s degree students must enroll at the Arlington Campus for the core theory courses. Five to seven elective courses (15-21 credits)
Students choose their electives from economics courses in any of the fields offered by the department. The courses below are recommended but not required. Students may substitute up to 6 credits of courses outside economics in closely related fields with prior written approval of the director of the graduate program.
Students who elect to write a thesis for 3 or 6 credits complete acccordingly fewer electives. Comprehensive Exams
Students must pass pass comprehensive exams in micro- and macroeconomics. Exams are offered twice each year. 3 or 6 credits of thesis (optional)
Once enrolled in ECON 799, students are required to maintain continuous registration until the thesis is submitted to and accepted by the University Library. The continuous registration policy is specified in the Academic Policies chapter of the catalog. |
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